Section 21 notices in Wales
The notice period for Section 21 (“no fault”) residential possession claims
in England and Wales is, in normal times, two months. This was extended to
three months in March; from 24 July, the Welsh government extended the
notice period to six months for properties in Wales for notices served up
to 30 September.
The Welsh government has now confirmed that the six-month notice period
will apply until 31 March 2021. This brings Wales into line with the
position in England which was discussed in our September Property
newsletter.
Section 8 notices in Wales
In relation to possession claims made under Section 8 (fault-based claims),
different notice periods apply depending on the grounds on which possession
is sought. Since March there have been various changes to the notice
periods required.
In Wales the position until 31 March 2021 is that, for most cases, six 6
months’ notice is required when serving a Section 8 notice. However, a
shorter notice period applies where Section 8 claims are based on criminal
activity, antisocial behaviour or domestic violence. There are differences
between the notice periods required in England and Wales for different
grounds of possession so landlords should check the rules carefully before
serving a notice.
Updates to documents and guidance
The documents and guidance relating to possession proceedings under Section
21 and Section 8 of the Housing Act 1988 have been amended to reflect the
new notice periods in Wales.
The contents of this Newsletter are for reference purposes only and do not constitute
legal advice. Independent legal advice should be sought in relation to any specific
legal matter.